How to become a councillor

The following is a brief outline of how to become a candidate for election to Plymouth City Council.

Step 1

Check that you are qualified to stand as a candidate. Providing you vote, live or work in Plymouth twelve months prior to an election and are 18 years of age or over you are qualified. However there are a number of disqualifications for instance, if you work for the City Council you are not allowed to stand for election.

Step 2

Decide on the description (if any) that you wish printed on the ballot paper. Any description must not exceed six words in length and if you use a description other than Independent the description must be registered and authorised in accordance with the political parties, elections and Referendums Act 2000.

Step 3

Obtain a nomination pack from the Returning Officer (only available when an election occurs).

Step 4

Complete a nomination paper and give consent to nomination. The nomination paper must state the full names, home address of the candidate and be signed by a proposer, seconder and eight others who live and are registered to vote in the ward for which you are standing. These signatories may not be able to sign other candidates nomination papers.

Step 5

Submit your nomination to the Returning Officer before the required deadline.

You may if you wish appoint another person to act as your election agent. If no such appointment is made the candidate will be deemed to be acting as their own agent.

The Returning Officer will prepare ballot papers on the basis of valid nomination papers submitted, for issue to voters on polling day.

At the close of nominations all candidates will be sent a letter confirming whether or not the nomination is valid.

Nomination packs are available below and from the Electoral Registration office from 3 February 2012.

Notes for the guidance of candidates and election agents can be obtained from the Electoral Commission website.

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